How to Stay Safe at Pools This Summer

Jun 24, 2015 10:00 AM

Author:
Office of Public Affairs

Cryptosporidium is the leading cause of waterborne disease in people in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control. “Kids are especially at risk for contracting and spreading the disease at community pools, since crypto is resistant to chlorine,” says Cindy Gellner, MD, a pediatrician at University of Utah Health.

Here, Gellner shares some tips to stay safe at pools this summer:

Crypto can be spread from infected animals to humans, so avoid drinking water from lakes or streams unless it’s boiled or filtered. It may also be on surfaces that have been contaminated with waste. Make sure to wash your hands properly after touching animals or using the restroom, as well as before eating or preparing food.

Want to learn more about crypto and what to do if you think your child has it? Gellner explains on this episode of The Scope.